December 23, 2016

We’ve had a great day filled with friends, Christmas gatherings, wrapping presents, and family. I’m hopeful I’ll be able to finish wrapping gifts without being up all hours of tomorrow night!

The stomach big has hit a little close to home taking out my brother a day ago and sister-in-law today. We would very much appreciate your prayers for a swift recovery and for the germs to stop there!

During this busy time of the season it is easy to get distracted by the gifts, parties, wrapping, gatherings, and “doings.” While your days are filled with the joys of the season don’t forget the reason we celebrate. We are celebrating the birth of the Christ child. God’s one and only son, sent for us. Having experienced first hand the pain of losing a child, I am better able to imagine the cost of salvation. I know my human brain cannot comprehend the magnitude of that sacrifice, but my mother’s heart can imagine the pain of watching my child suffer for people who did not deserve it. But, oh how thankful I am that He came.

His coming gives me hope, joy and peace. And the ability to say “my heart will CHOOSE to say, more blessed be your name.”